Group says national service a win for all

FOR some, the notion of compulsory time with the armed forces is one of great contention.

But for Stanthorpe man Des Fossey and many of his peers, it was something to be proud of and something which enriched society.

Mr Fossey is the current secretary/treasurer and former president of the National Servicemen's Association of Australia Stanthorpe Branch.

The branch was formed just 17 years ago, a mere blip compared to some organisations. Mr Fossey said it was important to recognise and honour the value of national service.

He encouraged anyone who'd undertaken national service and wasn't yet involved with the group to sign up.

"We're currently holding about 40 members that's with wives supporting us and everything,” Mr Fossey said.

The Menzies government introduced the National Service Act in 1951 amid an intensifying Cold War in Europe, communist success around South-East Asia and the beginning of the Korean War. This saw men turning 18 on or after November 1, 1950, conscripted for training for 176 days.